Caroline Bonaparte Cameo sells for a record price of $67000 at Bonhams auction in 2015
Cameo brooches are beautiful and intricate pieces of jewelry that have been crafted since the Renaissance era. They are a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit and have been sought after by antique jewelry collectors and enthusiasts for centuries. In this article, we will be exploring the history, types, and most valuable antique cameo brooches. We will also discuss the best places to find rare and most valuable cameos and how to determine their value.
Introduction to Antique Cameo Brooches
Cameo brooches are pieces of jewelry that feature the profile of a person or animal, usually carved from a piece of shell or stone. They have been popular since the 16th century, when they were used as a symbol of status and wealth. Today, they are still highly sought after by antique jewelry collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Cameos are typically made from a shell or stone, but they can also be made from other materials such as agate, onyx, ivory, coral, mother-of-pearl, and various gemstones. The most common type of material used for cameos is Carnelian shell, which is usually carved in the shape of a profile or bust. Other shells that are used to make cameo brooches are; Sardonyx shells, Queen Conch shells, Mother of Pearl shells, Abalone shells and Tiger shells
History of Antique Cameo Brooches
The cameo-style brooch has been around for a long time. The art of carving cameos has been traced back to ancient Rome and Greece, where cameos were often used to decorate jewelry and other objects. In the 18th and 19th centuries, cameo brooches became very popular in Europe, particularly in Italy. These brooches were often made of shell or other materials and featured intricate carvings of classical figures or scenes from mythology. Cameos were used as a symbol of status and wealth, and they were often given as gifts to important people or used as decorations in palaces and other grand buildings.
The popularity of cameos continued to grow throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, and they were often used as decorative pieces for clothing and jewelry. By the 19th century, cameo brooches had become increasingly popular with the upper class. They were often crafted from shell or stone and set in gold, silver, or other metals. During this time, many well-known jewellers began creating intricate and detailed designs, and cameos became even more popular.
Most Valuable Antique Cameo Brooches
The most valuable antique cameo brooches are those crafted from rare materials and featuring intricate details and embellishments. Some of the most valuable antique cameo brooches include:
· Victorian Cameo Brooches: These cameos feature the profile of a woman or girl, usually carved from shell or stone. They were often set in gold or silver and embellished with gemstones. The most valuable Victorian cameo brooches are those crafted from rare materials such as coral, lapis lazuli, or agate and featuring intricate details and embellishments.
· Art Deco Cameo Brooches: These cameos feature a more modern, geometric design featuring bold colors and intricate details.
· Edwardian Cameo Brooches: These cameos feature a more delicate, feminine design and are usually crafted from shell or stone. The most valuable Edwardian cameo brooches are those crafted from rare materials such as onyx or sardonyx and featuring intricate details and delicate embellishments.
Where to Find Rare and Most Valuable Antique Cameo Brooches
If you’re looking for rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches, there are a few places you can look. Here are some of the best places to find rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches:
· Antique Stores: Antique stores are a great place to look for rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches. Antique stores typically carry a wide selection of cameo brooches, so you can easily find the perfect piece for your collection.
· Online Auctions: Online auctions are a great way to find rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches. You can browse through listings from all over the world and find the perfect piece for your collection.
· Estate Sales: Estate sales can be a great place to find rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches. Estate sales often feature a wide selection of cameo brooches, so you can easily find the perfect piece for your collection.
· Antique Shows: Antique shows are another great place to find rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches. Antique shows typically feature a wide selection of cameo brooches, so you can easily find the perfect piece for your collection.
How to Determine the Value of Your Antique Cameo Brooches
When it comes to determining the value of your antique cameo brooches, there are a few factors you should consider. Here are some tips for determining the value of your antique cameo brooches:
· Condition: The condition of the cameo is one of the most important factors in determining its value. A cameo that is in good condition will be worth more than one that is in poor condition.
· Materials: The materials used to craft the cameo will also affect its value. Cameos crafted from rare materials such as coral, lapis lazuli, or agate will be worth more than those crafted from more common materials such as shell or stone.
· Craftsmanship: The craftsmanship of the cameo is also important. A cameo crafted with intricate details and embellishments will be worth more than one that is plain and simple.
· Age: The age of the cameo will also affect its value. An antique cameo that is over 100 years old will be worth more than a newer cameo.
Conclusion
Antique cameo brooches are beautiful and intricate pieces of jewelry that have been crafted since the Renaissance era. They are a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit and have been sought after by antique jewelry collectors and enthusiasts for centuries. In this blog, we explored the history, types, and most valuable antique cameo brooches. We also discussed the best places to find rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches, how to determine the value of your antique cameo brooches, and more. If you’re looking for rare and most valuable antique cameo brooches, visit Antiques Store Bournemouth today!